This release can only scratch the surface of the output of Errollyn Wallen, appointed Master of the King’s Music last summer, but it does demonstrate the eclecticism of her work. The pieces date from 2000 to 2023; all share a strong sense of momentum in these performances by the BBC Concert Orchestra and conductor John Andrews. Sometimes, it is clear how that onward drive is achieved: in Mighty River a constant, pulsing note is heard throughout virtually the whole 16-minute movement, underpinning quotes from Amazing Grace and references to spirituals. Often, though, it is more an undercurrent of restless agitation.
Two works include voices. By Gis and by St Charity is a short and effective setting of Shakespeare, compellingly delivered by Ruby Hughes, with the orchestral players’ chants of “shame!” drawing us into Ophelia’s claustrophobic inner world. Idunnu Münch is the vivid soloist in This Frame is Part of the Painting, which, setting Wallen’s own words, captures the vivid colours of Howard Hodgkin’s paintings.
The newest work, 2023’s Dances for Orchestra, zips through 1990s house music – with a repeating bass thudded out by low strings and timpani – to a perky folk-like dance for solo flute, to an 18th-century-style sarabande, and more. It is here that Wallen’s variety is heard to its clearest and sparkiest effect.
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